The symptoms of a nervous system problem depend on which area of the nervous system is involved and what is causing the problem. Nervous system problems may occur slowly and cause a gradual loss of function (degenerative). Or they may occur suddenly and cause life-threatening problems (acute). Symptoms may be mild or severe. Some serious conditions, diseases, and injuries that can cause nervous system problems include:

A sudden (acute) nervous system problem can cause many different symptoms, depending on the area of the nervous system involved. Stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) are common examples of acute problems. You may experience the sudden onset of one or more symptoms, such as:

Seizures can also cause sudden changes in consciousness, feeling (sensation), emotion, or thought. Abnormal body movements, such as muscle twitching, may or may not be present. How often the seizures occur and how severe they are depend on the cause of the seizures and the area of the brain involved. For more information, see the topic Seizures.

Diabetes can cause problems with balance, either as a result of peripheral neuropathy or stroke.

Most headaches are not caused by serious central nervous system problems. The pain that comes with a headache can range from a throbbing or a piercing pain, such as with a migraine, to severe pain that comes and goes over several days, such as with cluster headaches. Headaches are usually caused by problems with the sinuses, scalp, or muscles of or around the head. For more information, see the topic Headaches.

Check Your Symptoms

Do you think you may have a problem with your nervous system?

The nervous system controls movement and balance, the five senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch), your thought processes, and how awake and aware you are. It includes the brain, the spinal cord, and all the nerves in the body.

After passing out, it's normal to feel a little confused, weak, or lightheaded when you first wake up or come to. But unless something else is wrong, these symptoms should pass pretty quickly and you should soon feel about as awake and alert as you normally do.

Yes

Has returned to normal after loss of consciousness

No

Has returned to normal after loss of consciousness

Did the loss of consciousness occur during the past 24 hours?

Yes

Loss of consciousness in past 24 hours

No

Loss of consciousness in past 24 hours

Has there been a decrease in how alert or aware you are or how well you can think and respond?

Yes

Decreased level of consciousness

No

Decreased level of consciousness

Is this something that is part of a medical problem you already have or that you have discussed with a doctor before?

Eat a balanced diet. A balanced, low-fat diet with ample sources of vitamins B6, B12, and folate will help protect the nervous system. Make sure that your diet contains lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Drink plenty of water and other fluids. This helps prevent dehydration, which can cause confusion and memory problems.

To prevent dehydration during hot weather and exercise, drink water, rehydration drinks, or other fluids each day.

Drink extra water before, during, and after exercise. Take a container of water or sports drink with you when you exercise, and try to drink at least every 15 to 20 minutes.

Limit your intake of caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and colas, which increase dehydration and can affect sleep.

Do not use alcohol or illegal drugs, which can affect functioning long after use.

Have your hearing or vision tested. When you do not hear or see well, it is hard for your brain to record information.

Set priorities, and concentrate on one thing at a time. Older adults have a harder time than younger people giving their attention to more than one activity.

Increase your attention span and ability to focus by learning new skills.

Keep written notes. Write all your plans on a calendar where you can look at them often.

Use a medicine box with spaces for each day. This will help you remember when to take your medicines. Take your medicines exactly as they are prescribed.

Decrease your use of nonprescription medicines. Overuse of medicines may be the single biggest cause of nervous system problems in older adults.

Develop a positive attitude about your abilities. Reject the notion that nervous system (neurological) functioning declines with age.

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